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Tourist Alert: Top 10 Things to Avoid While Exploring Dubai
Tourist Alert: Top 10 Things to Avoid While Exploring Dubai

Ticketwave Support

April 17, 2025
8 months read

Are there any crime rates or other criminal challenges/issues that tourists must be cautious of while visiting Dubai?

Guide to Activities in Dubai

Dubai is a city that offers numerous activities for tourists visiting the UAE. From skyscrapers to beaches, it has something for everyone. Here’s our guide to pricing and how to get there.

Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

The tallest building in the world offers an observation deck on its 124th floor where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

  • Pricing: AED 149 ($41) per person
  • Location: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
  • How to Visit: The best way is by metro; take Red line heading towards Jebel Ali and get off at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (25-minutes ride)
  • Booking Portal: https://tickets.atthetop.ae/atthetop/en/choose-your-tickets

Burj Al Arab High Tea

The iconic hotel offers a high tea experience with breathtaking views of the Arabian gulf.

  • Pricing: AED 620 ($169) per person
  • Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim >
    < li > How-to Visit:
    Take Metro Red Line towards UAE Exchange and stop at Dubai Internet City station then hop into any mosque bus or transportation service like Careem/Taxi.

    * Bus:
    * F55A from DIC Metro Station To JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD ENTRANCE

    * C01 From DWC -Staff Village To Mall Of Emirates MS Seaside

    *
    Taxi/Ubers:
    – You can use ride-sharing services

  • Booking Portal: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/offers/category-offers/food-and-drink/dubai/high-tea-at-sahn-ederveen/#availability

Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise Dinner

Cruise along the Marina while enjoying dinner and entertainment.

  • Pricing: AED 215 ($58) per person
  • Location: Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Marina >
    < li > How-to Visit:

    Take Metro Red Line towards UAE Exchange and stop at DMCC station then hop into any mosque bus or transportation service like Careem/Taxi.

    * Bus:

    Buses From Ibn Battuta MS To Damac Properties (Dubai Media City)

    38-Damac Tower 108 to Mall Of Emirates

    84-Al Sufouh Station to Discovery Gardens

    F46-Jebel Ali Industrial Area to The Greens

    *
    Taxi/Ubers:
    – You can use ride-sharing services

  • Schedule & Booking Portal: https://dubaiprivatetour.com/product/marina-dinner-cruise/
    >

The Dubai Fountain Show by Burj Khalifa Lake

An impressive display of water, light, and music performances every evening.

  • Pricing: Free show but VIP seating is available for a price starting from AED20 ($6).

    * Location:
    * Downtown Dubai,
    * Burj Park vicinity,
    * Souk Al Bahar Bridge.

  • How-to Visit:

    The best way is by metro; take Red line heading towards Jebel Ali and get off at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (25-minutes ride)

  • Booking Portal: https://tickets.atthetop.ae/atthetop/en/choose-your-tickets

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

If you want a break from the city, visit Ferrari World for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

  • Pricing: AED230 ($63) per person
  • Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. It’s around one hour drive from Dubai >
    < li > How-to-Visit:

    * The cheapest option is to use public transport to reach Ferrari world.
    Since there are no direct routes between two places,
    you can follow these instructions:

    * From Ibn Battuta Metro station,take bus number E100 which will cost you around 30AED(~9USD).
    This Bus stops several times depending on traffic conditions hence it takes approximately around 90 minutes -3 hours

    * Taxi/Ubers:
    – You can rent a private car or drop off service with booking in advance.

  • Booking Portal:https://www.yasisland.ae/en/ferrari-world-abu-dhabi/tickets-offers/ticket-types#standard-admission

Tourist Alert: Top 10 Things to Avoid While Exploring Dubai

Boldly Go Where No Tourist Should Have To Go With These Tips!

We have gathered some tips for tourists who plan to explore the city.

    The Ten Commandments of Safe Sightseeing:

  • Avoid Touching Anyone with Left Hand: As Indians don’t use toilet paper,
    the left hand is used to clean after using the bathroom.
    So, it is considered dirty and shouldn’t be used to greet or eat with.
  • No PDA: In Dubai, public displays of affection are not tolerated
    – on shopping mall, in car parkings etc.Keep it private.
    Failure To Adhere May Result

    In Scrutiny Or Worst cases Arrest.

  • No Drugs :Dubai has strict laws regarding drugs and drug use including medication that you may think nothing of in other countries
    can have drastic consequences.People who get caught could face a life sentence, seven years imprisonment , fines up to AED40m (£8m) or death penalty.

  • Tobacco & Vape Restrictions: You must carry your valid ID proof for purchasing tobacco products as smoking/vaping below age limit(18YO)
    or at prohibited places will slap legal issues along worth heavy penalties.

    < Li > < Strong > Dress Modestly : As much as temperature rises here would tempt travellers
    to wear short clothes but keep in mind this ultra-conservative city does frown upon revealing clothing.

  • Do Not Consume Liquor In Public Places:Liquor freely flows throughout Dubai’s hotels,
    bars , pubs&clubs but savour them within licensed premises.Never drink and drive.It’s illegal even if you’re under alcohol limits .
  • No-Selfie Sticks:This might sound strange but carrying selfie stick along in Dubai is illegal.Upon the violation, you might heavy fines and/or,
    imprisonment .
  • No Cursing: Swearing/cursing are against “public decency” here so choose restrain yourself.
  • Mindful of Ramadan :Ramadan means fasting for Muslims but also..
    changes timings and adjustments to social norms.So do include these factors while planning ahead.
  • Awareness Of Laws & Customs : Dubai has many cultural,no-go-zones merely by virtue of legal restrictions or local customs.
    So keep yourself informed before any exploration

    If you remember our tips then your visit will be filled with fun, peace,a lesson,–not forgetting Souvenirs! Have a happy time in Dubai!

10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Dubai

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Insider Tip

The best time to explore Dubai’s hidden gems is during the winter months (November to March) when temperatures are pleasant. Early mornings and evenings offer the most comfortable conditions and the best lighting for photography.

10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Dubai

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Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Step back in time as you wander through the narrow sikkas (alleyways) of Al Fahidi, one of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods. Dating back to the late 19th century, this district showcases traditional wind tower architecture and houses numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers.

Don’t miss the Coffee Museum, where you can learn about Arabic coffee traditions and sample different brews from around the world.

Discover Old Dubai: Al Fahidi Walking Tour

Explore the historic Al Fahidi district with a knowledgeable local guide. Learn about Dubai’s pearl diving history, traditional architecture, and cultural heritage.

AED 125 per person

Alserkal Avenue

Once an industrial area filled with warehouses, Alserkal Avenue has transformed into Dubai’s vibrant arts and culture district. This creative hub houses contemporary art galleries, design studios, and unique concept stores.

The area regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and those seeking Dubai’s creative pulse.

Hatta Mountain Enclave

Just 90 minutes from downtown Dubai lies the mountain enclave of Hatta, a world away from the city’s urban landscape. This exclave of Dubai offers breathtaking mountain scenery, hiking trails, and the turquoise waters of Hatta Dam.

Adventure seekers can enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, or hiking, while those seeking relaxation can simply soak in the natural beauty and tranquility.

Hatta Dam Kayaking Adventure

Paddle through the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Hatta Dam surrounded by majestic mountains. Perfect for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.

AED 150 per person

The true beauty of Dubai isn’t just in its towering skyscrapers, but in the hidden corners where tradition meets innovation, and where the desert meets the sea.

Al Qudra Lakes

A man-made oasis in the desert, Al Qudra Lakes is a series of artificial lakes that has become a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for camping, cycling, and stargazing. The area is home to over 170 species of birds, including flamingos and swans.

The famous Love Lakes, two interconnected lakes shaped like hearts, have become a popular spot for photographers and romantics alike.

Al Qudra Lakes

A man-made oasis in the desert, Al Qudra Lakes is a series of artificial lakes that has become a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for camping, cycling, and stargazing. The area is home to over 170 species of birds, including flamingos and swans.

The famous Love Lakes, two interconnected lakes shaped like hearts, have become a popular spot for photographers and romantics alike.

These are just half of the hidden gems Dubai has to offer. Continue reading to discover five more incredible places that most tourists miss but should definitely be on your Dubai itinerary.

Ready to explore these hidden gems?

Book your Dubai adventure with TicketWave.ae and get exclusive access to guided tours of these off-the-beaten-path locations. Use code

HIDDEN 10 for 10% off your first booking!

Al Seef

Stretching along Dubai Creek, Al Seef blends the old and new with its dual design: one section features traditional Arabian architecture, while the other showcases contemporary design.

This waterfront promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering a pleasant place to stroll and soak in views of the creek. The traditional area, with its stone facades and wooden lattice screens, provides a glimpse into Dubai’s past.

Kite Beach

While Jumeirah Beach is well-known among tourists, Kite Beach offers a more local experience. As the name suggests, it’s popular for kitesurfing, but it’s also great for swimming, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.

The beach features a jogging track, outdoor gym equipment, and a variety of food trucks and cafes. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of the Burj Al Arab while relaxing on the sand.

Kitesurfing Beginner Lesson at Kite Beach

Learn the basics of kitesurfing with professional instructors at Dubai’s premier kitesurfing destination. All equipment provided.

AED 350 per person

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Located at the mouth of Dubai Creek, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve that’s home to over 450 species of animals and 67 species of birds, including the iconic pink flamingos.

The sanctuary has three hides where visitors can observe the wildlife without disturbing them. It’s a peaceful escape from the city and a paradise for bird watchers and nature photographers.

The Coffee Museum

Tucked away in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, The Coffee Museum is a hidden treasure for coffee enthusiasts. This unique museum showcases the rich history and culture of coffee from around the world.

Visitors can explore antique coffee grinders, brewing equipment, and traditional coffee pots from different cultures. The museum also offers coffee tasting sessions where you can sample various international brews.

Al Khawaneej Last Exit

For a unique dining experience, visit Al Khawaneej Last Exit, a food truck park with a rural farm theme. This quirky destination features vintage trucks converted into food outlets, serving everything from gourmet burgers to artisanal ice cream.

The venue is designed to resemble a traditional farm, complete with barns, tractors, and even a small lake. It’s a popular spot among locals, especially in the cooler months when outdoor seating is pleasant.

Tips for Exploring Dubai's Hidden Gems

Transportation:

While Dubai has excellent public transportation, some hidden gems are more accessible by car. Consider renting a car or using ride-hailing services for more remote locations.

Timing:

Visit popular spots early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler

Dress Code:

While Dubai is cosmopolitan, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting cultural and historical sites. Carry a light scarf or shawl for women to cover shoulders when needed.

Photography:

Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially in traditional areas. Some museums and galleries may have restrictions on photography.

Weather Preparation:

Dubai's sun can be intense. Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, and stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoor locations.

Ready to explore these hidden gems?

“The best way to experience Dubai’s hidden gems is to mix with the locals. Visit these places during weekends when local families are out and about, and don’t hesitate to strike up conversations. Emiratis are known for their hospitality and are often happy to share recommendations.” — Mohammed Al Shamsi, Dubai Tour Guide

Conclusion

Dubai’s hidden gems offer a refreshing contrast to its more famous attractions, providing deeper insights into the city’s culture, history, and natural beauty. By venturing beyond the tourist hotspots, you’ll discover a more authentic side of Dubai that many visitors miss.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or culinary experiences, these lesser-known destinations have something to offer. So on your next trip to Dubai, set aside some time to explore these hidden treasures—you won’t be disappointed.

Have you visited any of these hidden gems in Dubai? Or do you have other secret spots to recommend? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Ticketwave Support

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Quick Guide Overview

Price Range

AED 0 - 350 per activity
Most locations are free to visit

Time Needed

2-4 hours per location
Full guide: 2-3 days recommended

Locations

Spread across Dubai
From Old Dubai to Hatta (90 mins drive)

Best For

Couples, Families, Solo Travelers
Suitable for all age groups

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